REGION: Cleveland National Forest declares 'extreme' fire danger

Effective 6 a.m. Thursday, the U.S. Forest Service is moving its
fire-danger indicator for the Cleveland National Forest in San
Diego, Riverside and Orange counties from "very high" to "extreme,"
triggering numerous restrictions on recreational activities.

Forest Service officials said Wednesday they were making the
change because the recent hot weather, the ongoing statewide
drought and a large amount of dead plant material have left the
oak-and-chaparral-covered forest tinder dry.

In the Palomar Ranger District of North San Diego County and
Trabuco Ranger District of Southwest Riverside County, no wood or
charcoal fires will be allowed anywhere, the service said in a news
release.

In both districts, gas, liquid and jelly petroleum stoves will
be allowed in developed campgrounds. But the service said no stoves
will be permitted in remote backcountry camping areas, including
the San Mateo Canyon Wilderness.

Also, the service said it is closing the Wildomar Off-Highway
Vehicle Park in Riverside County.